The Woman King – Budget of $50 million – 2 hours and 15 minutes
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In 1823 West Africa, the Agojie of the Dahomey Kingdom returned from a fierce battle with their captured people and prisoners from Migan’s tribe. King Ghezo instructs his people not to look at the Agojie. General Nanisca stands in front of the trainees and tells them the rules of joining her elite warriors. The Agojie can’t marry or have children. However, they will never starve and be revered. Among the trainees is Nawi. Nawi’s father tried to force her to marry an older man, but the man slapped her when she wouldn’t speak to him. Nawi’s father dragged her to Ghezo’s palace and gave Nawi to Ghezo.
Ghezo and one of his wives sit in front of his council and discuss the future of Dahomey. Nanisca warns the king that trading prisoners into slavery for western weapons will weaken Africa. They should sell renewable sources like gold and palm oil. Another advisor tells the king that selling their enemies into slavery will strengthen their kingdom. Ghezo gives Nanisca a month to prove this is a profitable solution.
Migan enters Dahomey for Ghezo’s tribute to the Oyo Empire. His kingdom controls the port Dahomey needs to keep the slave trade. Migan notices that the tribute is short and tells Ghezo that he wants 20 Agojie to make up for the shortfall. Instead of giving Migan 20 warriors, Nanisca declares war. Migan believes the Dahomey kingdom is getting bolder. So, he entices other tribes and western slavers to band together to bring them down. Nanisca will need to look her horrific past in the face to defeat the oncoming attack.
This movie is a warrior’s tale with bits of history thrown into the plot. Viewers should use this film as a starting point to do more research on the Dahomey kingdom and the Oyo Empire. Within the story, viewers get revenge, love, jealousy, and excellent choreography. And the story does explain the movie’s title. The astounding details on costumes, hair, and makeup are unforgettable. However, there is an audible difference between native African speakers and those from other countries. The flip in tone and dialect can be distracting.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Do not force my anger – King Ghezo
Count yourself lucky you are not on the block – Santos
Where are the prisoners? Where are my people – General Nanisca
I will not marry an old man who beats me – Nawi
The gods would not be so cruel – Amenza
I am Izogie – Izogie
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